Home | Book Reviews | Lilian Jackson Braun: The Cat Who… series
Lilian Jackson Braun: The Cat Who… series
The Cat Who… series is available at Diesel Ebooks and at Amazon.com.
A few years ago, the Mystery Guild Book Club polled members with the question “Which mystery writer would you rather be stranded on a desert island with?” The winner: Lillian Jackson Braun. The book club didn’t ask why readers voted for her, but anyone who has read Ms. Braun’s novels knows why.
With the exception of the first three novels, which set the stage for the series, each novel is a vacation for the reader to a quirky, arts-loving, small town where the most important edifice is the library. Each novel in the series is a murder mystery, but the violence is off-screen, and the murder presents itself early in the story as a problem to be solved. While solving the murder, the protagonist and the reader learn something about the arts such as painting, ceramics or spinning and weaving, along with drama, history, literature and geography.
As far as I can count, Lillian Jackson Braun has written twenty eight novels in The Cat Who… series starting with The Cat Who Could Read Backwards, published in 1966, and continuing through The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers, published in 2007.
The series starts with the story of Jim Qwilleran, an unemployed journalist who had once been great but whose alcoholism and divorce had derailed his career. Now alone and on the wagon, he hopes to get any job he can, just to pay the rent. Mortified by the fact that he is forced to accept an insignificant column in the features section, he accepts, and in his research he ends up solving a murder. He adopts the victim’s now homeless cat, Koko, who proves to be the most intelligent and entertaining, if not the most well-behaved cat in literature.
The series gets interesting when Jim suddenly finds himself heir to one of the largest fortunes in America, providing that he move to the town of Pickax described as “400 miles north of everywhere.” For Qwilleran, moving to Pickax isn’t near as much of a problem as figuring out what to do with all that money.
The Girlebooks reading list recommends this series for the sheer fun of reading. The beauty of this series is that when you get that lost feeling after reading a really good book you can always pick up the next one.
>>> Join the dicussion in the new Lilian Jackson Braun forum!
SPOILERS AHEAD:
I just finished The Cat Who HAd Sixty Whiskers. I was devastated and little P.O’d at Polly for leaving Qwill. I also could not believe Ms. Braun burned the barn down. I just loved to read his description of the house. I also loved his little quirks with POlly. There was always the mystery of would they get married? I feel so bad for Qwill. I am really upset at Ms. Braun for finishing this book like this. I doubt I will read anymore of books with the enthusiasm that I always have. She made a bad move and I don’t know why.
I’m only just starting to read “The Cat Who Had Sixty Whiskers” so this was a bit of a spoiler. However, the joy of reading LJB’s books is that the ending doesn’t matter as much as the journey. This isn’t the first fire Mr. Q has endured (remember the K mansion?) Nor is it his first love lost (for example, his wife, a girlfriend Rosemary, and the love of his life, Joy, who was murdered shortly after their reunion.) “The Cat Who Saw Red” where Joy was murdered was, because of its vivid descriptions of making and firing pottery, one of my favorite “Cat Who” books in spite of the love lost. I liked Polly, but LJB always seems to dream up something better to replace that which is lost. And besides, he could get her back…
What happened to the “The Cat who Smelled Smoke”? I thought it was due out in June but the publisher pulled it.
I have to say that I am glad Polly is gone. Quill really needs someone to respond to him. And someone who really loves the cats and finds them cleaver and exciting.
You’re right, Sheila, “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” is still not available, at least anywhere that I can find it. I have been reading about Lilian Jackson Braun, what there is to find out about her–which is not much–and she is nearing if not past 90. I began to wonder how long she can keep up the series. How can we live without it?
I have every book in this series. I read and kept all of my copies of “The Cat Who” books and have read them over and over again until the last one came out (Cat With 60 Wiskers). I haven’t picked one up since. I was VERY unhappy & disappointed in the last 3 books in the series and really felt as if someone else was writing the books for Ms.Braun. The writing is not her style. Questions remained unanswered when the books ended and it just seemed as if they weren’t being thought out correctly. I do hope Ms. Braun is ok but if she’s going to retire the series then she should announce it and stop the series. Putting out books like the last 3 or so is not being fair to her many many readers and fans.
I agree with C. S. Phillips that the last three books were not as good as the earlier ones. I just finished reading the first five books in the series, and they are much better than the later ones. However, Ms. Braun, if Wikipedia is accurate, is about 93 years old, and any writing she does at all is close to a miracle. I notice that “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” is still not available, although it will be the next in the series. Yes, I will buy it and read it, if for no other reason than curiosity. The trajectory of the series, however, has something to do with the tired themes of the last three books. In the early books, it was all Qwilleran could do to keep a roof over his head and caviar for the cats in the pantry. Now with a fortune at his disposal, plot lines are more limited, even if the fantasy factor is a draw for the reader. Who wouldn’t like to live in a friendly town with bags of money and a part time job?
I am sure we all want Ms Braun to continue to write The Cat Who…series, as she has given us so many wonderful hours of reading.
I too wondered why she burned the barn. I loved picturing all the nooks and crannies with the cats.
Let us hope she is just teasing us before a great knew book comes out.
I agree with Sheila. I hated losing the barn. Owning four cats, I have coveted the ramp that the cats scamper up and down, in addition to the lingering smell of apples. The shoddily, build, prefab Ittibittiwasse Estates just can’t replace it! I also miss the Klingenshoen mansion.
I couldn’t believe Polly leaving her beloved Brutus & Catta. She loved them to excess previously.
I hope the find out who burned down the barn. Maybe it can be rebuilt. All those wonderful things he had inside.
I got to here because I was trying to find out if “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” is out yet. I have all the other books & loved them. I agree the last 3 were not quite as good, but will buy the last one if it comes out. The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers seem to kind of jump around-didn’t flow smoothly. Things just seemed thrown in. She has given us a lot of pleasure over the years-hate for it to end, but the years catch up with all of us.
I am wondering if the holders of the copyrights for the “Cat Who…” series intend to carry on the when Ms. Braun retires. There is always the question of whether the new author or group of authors will live up to the original standard. On the other hand, different Cat Who books might be better than no Cat Who books. For readers hankering for good “man and his cat” stories while we wait for “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” Cleveland Amory and Peter Gethers have written some charming non-fiction books that start with a “The Cat Who” title. (”The Cat Who Came for Christmas” and “The Cat Who Went to Paris.”) [Note: if this post has any typos, my cat apologizes. She was licking my hand while I typed. At least she didn't walk across the keyboard this time. Uh oh--here she comes...]
I’m from the Philippines and I am a fan of the Cat Who series. Right now I’m reading The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare. I like the series because the suspense is just enough for me to bear. Last week I was reading John Grisham’s The Pelican Brief — a version for children in fact — and the suspense nearly killed me. Since I write for magazines, I enjoy — and try to learn from — how Qwill asks his questions and gets ideas for his column. Of course his good fortune and how he can always beat the deadline makes me green with envy.
Myra has a point. Reading John Grisham, or Dan Brown, or Robert Ludlum is grueling. Lilian Jackson Braun’s style harks back to the more leisurely styles of Agatha Christie, Daphne Du Maurier and Vera Caspary. You stroll through the book rather than rush through it. I said before that I thought reading LJB is more like taking a vacation in Pickax. Perhaps this is why.
I love the Cat Who books and listen to them on tape at least ten times. The last book really upset me as I could visualize the barn and the lovely surrounding area. I hope someone with Ms. Brauns love of mystery and country folk picks up the series because I feel like I have lost some very close and wonderful friends!!!!!!!!
I started reading the Cat Who series about 10 years ago and stopped when I had my two children. I have now restarted and am about to start “The Cat Who Talked to Ghosts”. I agree with Joyce McDonald … it would be great to see another author or group of authors carry on the series. I don’t know what else could or would capture my attention as much as Qwill, Koko and Yum-Yum.
Like Maureen, I would certainly miss my vacations in Pickax when LJB puts down her pen. I recently bought the book “Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her” and it made me think of the LJB series. LJB is a real person, but if she passed the torch to a loyal and talented writer, would the series keep its readership? Interesting, after mentioning Daphne Du Maurier in my last comment, I happened upon the book “Rebecca’s Tale” by Sally Beauman, in Costco. This book is a sequel to “Rebecca”. “Rebecca” is one of my favorite books, and yet the sequel is thus far (I’ve read about a third of the book)living up to expectations. Hmmm…what if Sally Beauman…
I have read every one of her books some more than once. I truly enjoy them. I do agree that the last few did not seem as good as the rest but they were still entertaining. However if LJB is still writing them and the fact that she is in her 90’s could contribute to that. I do hope that she has someone who can take up the reigns and carry on for her. I would hate to imagine not visiting with Qwill, Koko and YumYum.
Barb’s comment got me to thinking. It seems that a lot of LJB fans, Barb and I included, would like to see the series continued indefinitely. Maybe it would be fun to post here what we would like to see in future “Cat Who” books. For example, I would like to find out, now that Polly is gone, that Joy Graham is not dead at all, and that she pays a visit to Qwill–perhaps sets up a pottery in Pickax. What would happen then? What other stories would you like to see?
I always wondered what happened to Rosemary and Qwill’s ex wife. I want Polly back and the barn. I loved Mrs. Cobb, what a great cast of characters she created. I hope someone takes over and Qwill gets to visit down below again.
I think it would be a good storyline if Koko picked out someone for Quill.
I too would like to see the series continued but only if they’re as good as the first 20/25 books. I’m glad Polly is gone, I didn’t like her at all. Much too pushy & a real snob (poor “Quill dear”). I most certainly DID NOT like the major characters being off. Why? What was the purpose? I liked Mrs. Cobb and also Derek’s rich girlfriend from Breakfast Island who was killed off in the last book with no explanation. Why burn down the mansion and the barn? These are a part of what Pickax is all about.
In answer to Cheryl’s commentary, Rosemary came to visit Qwill at Aunt Fannie’s lakeshore cabin in Moose county (”The Cat Who Played Brahms.”) She hit it off well with Aunt Fannie. Then Aunt Fanny died while Rosemary was up there. Rosemary helped Qwill go through the Klingenshoen mansion looking for the will. However, after the murder and other instances of terror, Rosemary was ready to hightail it back “down below”. The relationship was doomed from the beginning. She was a health food nut; he was a meat and potatoes man. She was probably 15 years older than Qwill. They couldn’t finish each other’s sentences, nor could they understand each others’ jokes. Still, Rosemary had her attractions, and it might be nice to see her again.
Qwill’s wife, Miriam, it was revealed in “The Cat Who Saw Red”, was in a mental hospital. We also learned that Miriam up and left him. This puts a whole new light on their breakup. I thought at first that she had left him because of his drinking, but the story line seems to insinuate that he took up that sport after she left him. Maybe it was when the in-laws started asking him for money. They are supposedly wealthy and he (at least in the first four novels) is usually penniless.
I think Kayla has a great idea of having Koko pick someone out for Qwill. After all, no woman is allowed to stay in Qwill’s life unless Koko approves of it, and he is VERY particular.
I would have to say my favorite “Qwill woman” was Melinda Goodwinter, his doctor. She has the same dry wit and sharp intelligence as our favorite newsman.
I love the Cat books. I would hate to see Polly leave as she is a good.
I just started reading this series and want to get all of them read.
I get them at our local library and they seem to have a lot of them.
Norma Driggs
Norma, You won’t be disappointed they are so entertaining and adictive. I have read them and re-read them. Enjoy
I agree with Barb. I have read most of them more than once. It is very hard to stop once you start the series from the beginning. The LJB books are so different from a lot of fiction in that the books are relaxing and inviting, like a small town diner. Most also are informative of one topic or another, like journalism, pottery, spinning, limmericks, haiku or even Scottis literature. You never know what you’re going to learn about next.
I am wondering if possibly the publisher is delaying “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” book until after Lilian’s death. She is 95…maybe the publisher thinks they’ll make more money if her fans have to wait for it.
I also agree with alot of the other comments about the last 3 books. I especially concur that Polly seemed very out of character in the last one. She would never abandon her cats, just like Qwill wouldn’t!
I have never been so surprised about events in a book like I was with Lilian’s last one. It reminded me of when I was working my way through all of Agatha Christie’s, with her neat twists and turns, except this time, it didn’t solve a murder. It just left me wondering when she’d write the whole book was simply a dream. Overall, the book didn’t feel right and I felt gypped when I finished it.
I hope someone continues the series.
Well, Lyn, you may be on to something. Are you old enough to remember “Dallas?” They wiped out an entire season of “Dallas” (one in which Bobby died) by making it out to be a bad dream. One could only wish that Lillian had that in mind for “The Cat Who had 60 Whiskers”. Maybe in the next one, it will start back there a ways in the time line.
I would be less inclined to think that the publishers are holding back until LJB’s demise and more likely to believe that they realize people were not real happy with the outcome of the last one and maybe want to LJB to re-think how she is going to resolve it. Another issue they have to deal with is that if this could possibly be her last book, what will happen to Qwill? Will they off him (cringe) or will they hire someone else to continue his life?
I’m being patient in waiting for “Smoke” for the same reason I haven’t read the last two Harry Potter novels: I want to have something to look forward to.
My mom and I love this series, but were both sad about the last book. It just wasn’t up to her standards.
It was sad about the barn being burned. Also, Quill seemed to have no regrets about it– he wasn’t portrayed as grieving the loss.
The Polly issue was also very abrupt. She left her cats and Quill like they never mattered. If I were LJB I would somehow make it a dream like someone else had suggested.
Heard yesterday that the publisher has cancelled all pre-orders for “Smoke”, which led me to find this site.
My sister turned me onto “The Cat Who..” years ago, and we both feel that four or five books ago someone else took over writing them. LJB always had cute little word plays and puns, but in two books in particular it stopped being cute and felt very forced and contrived. Then it seemed like they gave someone else a try, and the next book or two seemed more like Lilian’s previous works. I hated “60 whiskers” but was/am still waiting to see what happens with “smoke”. I wonder if the publisher was trying to rush it to press before she died to make it seem like she wrote the next book, but then discovered whomever was ghostwriting it blew it? I also hope that Quill, Koko and Yum Yum get to live on after her. I’d miss them!
I agree with Cay. I felt like someone else was doing the writing in the last few books. I hope that they find a writer who can continue to bring us the enjoyable stories about characters who have almost become “friends”. I’d miss them too.
I thought Polly was getting a little tiresome in the last few books-seemed like she took Quill for granted. I agree-she would not just up and leave her cats-that was totally out of her character.
It seemed like quite a few of the characters we got fond of were killed off in some of the books, so I guess we should not have been surprised when the beloved Applebarn burned. No one or no thing was secure (with the exception of Quill, Koko, and YumYum.)
For being a crime free area-there were sure a lot of murders and arsons.
I do hate to see the series end-I have really enjoyed the books. I also hope someone picks up where LJB left off.
Actually, I lost quite a bit of enthusiasm for the series when LJB killed off Elizabeth Cage, Derek’s girlfriend, and had none of the characters display more than the most perfunctory acknowledgement of her untimely, tragic death. No one even inquired how Derek was holding up. It was so heartless, I was stunned. Then I read a review that said anyone who loved the series should never read the Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers, so I didn’t. Now, having read the comments here and learned a little about the plot, I can see why. I never thought Polly was a very well developed character in the first place, but for the publisher to release a story that had her leaving Qwilleran and abandoning her cats is an insult to the whole series. Agatha Christie’s later books were pale by comparison with the quality of her earlier works, but at least she never compromised her characters. How stupid of the publishers to have evicerated the integrity of the series.
Did Lilian Jackson Braum die? If so I missed reading about it.
Peggy: No, LJB did not die that we know if. Her book “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” was delayed being published, and we were speculating, since she’s about 93 years old, how long she could keep up writing.
Karen: You were right. Thas was strange that Derek’s girlfriend got such short shrift. Of course I would NEVER recommend that someone NOT read one of the Cat Who books. I actually found “The Cat Who Saw Red” (a very early offering) to be the most painful, but also one of the best. Who knows what is happening with the recent books. Maybe the editor is screwing things up. But as long as LJB publishes, I will read.
I’m so glad to read that others believe, as I do, that someone else has been honchoing the last two or three LJB books. Familiar characters have been behaving in most unexpected ways! Nonetheless, I’m waiting with fingers crossed for The Cat Who Smelled Smoke — hoping for a return of the old LJB magic!
I first found Qwill, Koko, and Yum Yum at a most difficult time in my life. My husband had died suddenly at 35, and I wanted only to lose myself in something mindless. After reading my first Cat Who, I felt that I had three new friends in Qwill, Koko, and Yum Yum, and they’ve since helped me through some tough times.
I’ve read each of the books four times over the last two years, and I’m starting on my fifth go ’round. The books may not be high art, but every time I (re)read one, I learn something new about human — and feline — nature. And, more importantly, I feel optimistic about life.
Viva Qwill, Koko, and Yum Yum!
I really hope that they can find someone to “pass the pen” to who can continue in the same way as LJB. I named one of my cats Koko because of her pointed markings. The characters in her books are like visits from dear friends and I hope they will continue.
Cat Lover from Boston, I am so touched by your story about healing you have done by reading “Cat Who” books. You give a lot of credit to LJB, but I suspect that the healing resource is within yourself, and that LJB just helped to catalyze it. Qwill, as we well know, was also putting his life back together after some disastrous life events and some even more disastrous life choices. Qwill and both the cats lost loved ones early in the series. It was only through their union that they could properly heal, move on, and finally find joy. I find it inspiring that this union could help someone else heal as well.
As Barb says, reading LJB is like gaining new friends in Qwill, Koko and Yum Yum. I suspect that sometimes they understand you more than your real friends, and you don’t have to explain yourself to them. A real plus when no words exist to describe how you are feeling.
I was glad to see Polly go but happy she moved on to a bit of adventure in Paris - BUT she would never never have abandoned her cats! People move with their animals all the time. I was disappointed that Ms. Braun wrote Polly out like that - surely her charater would have come back and told Quill directly about her plans! At least she didn’t kill her off by having her run over by the bookmobile or food poisoning!
I agree with other comments that the last few books have been a bit lacking in substance.
I found out about the publication cancellation of the new book when my library abruptly cancelled my book request hold.
what is the order of the books I have read
The Shakespeare one
The cat that saw Red
but I know that there are more before the ones I have read but I don’t know the order to read them in
thanks
While casually browsing the Web for information about a new release from LJB, I discovered this site with the comments. It was heart-warming to find others who have enjoyed the Cat Who series as much as I have. I agree that the last few books were not the same as earlier publications; I especially missed the little touches of humor.
Kris,
If you check out the Wikipedia site for The Cat Who series it will give you a list in order. I know once I found the correct order I have re-read the series several times.
Barb,
Thank you
I will take a look at that site.
I have a book titled
The cat who had 14 tales
it is not listed on the Wikipedia site
does anyone know if this is in the series???????
Also have mystery cats 3 and More mystery cats
are they in another series
thanks
To Kris Moore: Read “The Cat Who Saw Red” next. It is way before “The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare.” My first go round, however, I started in the middle, went forward, and worked back. It was kind of fun, like a flashback, to see the early Qwill after I had become introduced. Thus, don’t get too hung up on the order. I’ll try to publish a list in order soon.
“14 Tales” is a book of short stories about cats (not Koko and Yum Yum) written by Lillian Jackson Braun.
“Mystery Cats 3″ is a book of cat mysteries by different authors, and includes “Phut Phat Concentrates” by LJB, a story that is also in “14 Tales”. “MC3″ has offerings by some very renowned authors, so don’t be put off by the fact that there is only one LJB story in there. It is an enjoyable story book.
If you liked these stories, I also recommend Lesley O’Mara’s “Best Cat Stories” and Stella Whitelaw’s “Favorite Cat Stories.”
If you read “The Cat Who Had 14 Tales” you can find references to some of the stories in that book in some of the other “Cat Who…” books. I think the cat that is the namesake of “Tipsy’s Tavern” might be one of the stories.
Thank you all so much for your information.
I have read a few of the Books and am already hooked.
I did get the list from the wikipedia site, I have a lot of reading to do.
Hi, Fran! When I got your post via email, for some reason I couldn’t find it here. Didn’t mean to ignore you for so long, because we want to thank you for your kind words and welcome you to the group!
From the looks of this blog, there are lots of people that are hooked on LJB. There will be more reviews and treats for members of this blog as we go along. Laura is already plotting her next move! I’ll be getting back to reading LJB after I finsh Dorothy Sayers (another addictive mystery writer.)
Hi! I am delighted to have found this site. I have read the “Cat Who” series for around 10 years. I own every book and also every one on tape. I listen to them in my car every day. I discovered them after my divorce, when I was looking for books to read and had more time on my hands. Every now and then I see one of the books at a garage sale and I buy it for an extra. Last night for kicks I read again “Brahms”. What a delight. I read them at first as I discovered them, and then lately as new ones came out I read them in order. The first one I read was “Cheese” and then “Shakespere”. What a spectacular ending “Brahams, Shakespere, Glue, and Wasn’t There” had. I still recall the surprise I felt the first time I read them. And if you go back and read again, “Closet”, you realise how much information and plots and side plots were packed into that story. I hope they never end. Who would you pick to play Qwill if a movie or series was ever made. I think Tom Selleck would make a good Qwill, or the man who plays the Captain on Monk, I forget his name.
Welcome, Robin. I guess LJB helps a lot of people get through tough times. I think she would be happy to hear that.
I didn’t even know they had LJB on tape! That must be fun to listen to. I’ll have to look for them.
I never thought about making a movie of LJB, but that is certainly a fun idea. Tom Sellek does sound like a good pick for Qwill. I was trying to think of how I pictured Qwill. To be honest, I think I visualized Mike Ditka for no particular reason. But then Mike Ditka isn’t an actor.
I think Tom Sellek is to young looking I picture Qwill more like Noble Willingham (Walker Texas Ranger the older guy) Mike Ditka is another good choice (visually)but he is not an actor.
I an eagerly awaiting “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke”, no matter how bad it is or how different it is from the older books, I am ready for the saga to continue.
Oh dear the man on Walker Texas Ranger would have been good 10 years ago, but he is in his 70s now. Tom Sellek is 58. I think an actor in his 50s or early 60s would be old enough. What about the man who was the star in the comedy Coach, and more recently played the police chief in “The District”? He is in his early 60s.
Unless I missed something, Qwill is in his late 40’s and has been so for about 40 years. I wish we all could age so gracefully.
Overstock.com has the audio book for pre-order. It is stated as being available Jan. 1 2009.
I fear for the worst–maybe it will never be published! It will be hard to leave Qwill & Polly & the barn as it is now.
From running around on different sites I have found some helpful information about her recent books. Mainly trying to find the status of “Smoke”
She has a new editor. That can explain why the recent books SEEM different, but it is still her. I caught in (was it “Whiskers” or “Bombshell”) Koko was NOT mentioned by his full name, and the “recall” as I call it of how he got his name and who it was after failed to appear. Now knowing about the editor this makes sense.
There were other nuances that she always carried over in every book that were missing as well or changed slightly that made it seem out of place. Again, blame the editing staff for trying to get creative and change things up.
Her books were written for a reader to start in at any point in the series. I started in at “Shakespeare”, then went back to the proper point. It didn’t seem out of place that much.
I am anxious to hear news from the publisher on “Smoke”. It seems she is trying to get the ducks all in a row so to speak based on how the last book wrapped up.
You have to remember. Her first 3 were written in the late 60’s!! They only took off in the mid 80’s really. So the series has been around for quite some time.
Travis, Thanks sooooo much for your update! It would explain so much! It seemed that I had noticed a few inconsistencies in the later books. I can’t remember exactly what, but I vaguely remember that it was something to do with what happened to Qwill’s wife, and the explanation didn’t jive with the first four or five books in the series. I’ll have to research that issue. But the issue of the new Editor would certainly explain things. It would seem that those idiots would realize that when they get “creative” they are playing with fire if the author has a dedicated readership like LJB’s.
The cat who had 60 whiskers——
My theory is, Quill was out riding his bicycle, and had an accident that left his in a coma, and this is his nightmare, of “what could
happen”. Maybe, I just wish this
series would never end, I have all the books, and really enjoy them.
Bettie Morrell, I like your theory, it was all a dream, a nightmare.
The “dream” angle is compelling, but some of us old geezers remember that from the series “Dallas”. I don’t think it would fly unless we could forbid anyone over 40 from reading it. That wouldn’t be fair.
I have to admit that there are a lot of plotlines that I wish could have been undone, especially some of those characters that died and the burning down of the K Mansion, but somehow LJB showed us that Qwill was able to get over it and move on. It gives us a little hint of what dealing with grief and loss is all about, and judging from some of our contributors here, the lessons are helpful and healing.
I am listening now to The Cat Who Came to Breakfast. It is amazing the nuances you pick up when listening rather than reading. I can only hope that 60 whiskers was a dream. Why get rid of Liz Hart? And in such an aburt way. I can accept Polly doing something out of character and leaving. People do things at this age that are sometimes out of character. If I was single I could see myself doing something like that and shocking my kids. I wish the books could continue and we could see how Derrick Cuttlebrink will handle growing up and aging, Clayton Robinson could grow up and move to Moose county. Maybe would would get to know Jr. Goodwinters children as they age. Polly could come back years after being in Paris and regret losign Qwill. He would be with someone else by then. All sorts of possibilities. Maybe Oonosh, Qwilleran could date Oonosh. I just wish it could go on and on. And what to rebuild on the site of the burned apple barn? Who knows?
Trivia question game anyone?
I’m game: How tall is Derek Cuttlebrink?
How tall is Derek…….hummmm I can’t remember…seems he is around 6′5″?
Next trivia:
l. Name the four houses Polly has lived in?
Bonus: Name the 5th house (the one she never moved into)
2. Who was the intended target of the bomber of the Old Pickax Hotel?
3. Joyce who is young and tall enough to play Derek in a tv show of the cat who??? I cannot think of anyone
Well, Robin, I’m glad you assigned me the easy one because I drew a complete blank on the first two questions. As far as my own question: How tall is Derek Cuttlebrink? He is 6′8″. Who would be right to play him in a movie? I don’t know many actors who are that tall. How about Matt Bonner of the San Antonio Spurs? He’s a little taller (I think he’s 6′10″) but he has the charming All American boy look to him. Or maybe I’ve been watching too much basketball. So on to another trivia question:
In addition to Koko, Qwill inheirited a dictionary from his first landlord (in the series, that is), Montclemens. What use did Qwill make of this dictionary?
Wow Derek is tall. The tallest man I know in real life is my husband. He is 6′7″.
The dictionary was used for a scratching pad, and in an early book Qwill and Koko used it for word games.
Polly’s houses:
Cottage at McGregors farm
Garage Apt. behind the Gage mansion
Lynette’s house on Pleasant St.
*never lived in house she attempted to build on Trevelyan Rd behind the barn
Condo at Indian Village
Bomber meant to kill his wife/exwife Oonosh
What fun!
New trivia question:
What color did Mildred use to much of when decorating her lake house near Mooseville.
Barnes and Noble phone line said the new book (Cat Who Smelled Smoke) is delayed until June 09. booohooo.
I want another book. Just one more. I miss Qwill and the cats. I want to hear more about Elizabeth’s death. I forgive Polly. I vow to accept Barbara without criticism. If only I can have one more book. Perhaps we could finally get to know Jodie Goodwinter. Maybe some of the jailed theives and murderers might get paroled and come back. I can never get enough of sweet Lori Bamba. I just know we could be good friends if she were real. Just one more book. I want Clayton to move to Pickax and go to MCCC and help Qwill solve a mystery. I wish If only I could have one more book so that I could stroll around Park Circle and hear what Fran and Susan are doing these days. And Dwight, unlucky in love….needs a mate. Just one more book…….
Iam glad that they are at least going to release the new book even though we have to wait until June. I miss Qwill and the cats too. I also want to find out about the barn and why it burned along with so many of the un-answered questions that have been left after the lat book. I really hope that LJB has someone to take up the reins should something happen and she can no longer continue.
I am wondering who will inherit Elizabeth Hart’s money. Did she leave it to Derek and make him a millionaire. Did she leave some to charity and the community taking a page from Qwill’s book. Or did she perhaps leave it ti Qwill as her father figure? Derek becoming a millionaire could lead to alot of story lines.
I put a commentary on the posting for “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers”, and Laura informs me that all you that commented here probably won’t be notified of it, so I am letting you know that I have a new post under the blogs on that title.
In the meantime, a trivia question from “60 Whiskers”–Can you name Q’s three loftiest ambitions? Hint: it is mentioned on the first page of the print book.
I got no takers for my trivia question: Can you name Q’s three loftiest ambitions?
Thus, I will give the answer myself: First, play first second base with the Chicago Cubs. Second, to act on the Broadway stage. Third, and later in life, to write for the New York Times. Well, the Moose County Something is close.
I am only on “Went up the Creek” but already dreading not having anymore to read after “Whiskers”. Are there other mystery series which may be similar (besides Agatha)??? I think if Quill really loved someone he would share his entire life with them, including Koko’s abilities!!! It’s been a long winder in Illinois!
I think after Polly washes her hair, organizes her spring wardrobe and returns to her senses she will be back in Quill’s life for a last book.
hi i’m mys from manila, philippines. i came across your site to check on new releases of ljb. sadly, i haven’t read ljb’s last two books and also patiently awaiting for her next book (hopefully not the last) in the series. i’ve been hooked to “the cat who series..” by serendipity. my aquaintance with qwill, koko & yumyum grew as a quest, for my copies of the series is almost complete by patiently rummaging in every booksale shop i visit for the last 7 years. it’s the thrill of finally finding her books and the pleasure of reading and re-reading them made it all worthwhile. thanks and more power.
Welcome Mys from the Phillipines! MYS has a point. The reading and rereading of LJB books is part of the joy of it. And I also rummaged in used book stores trying to fill out my collection. It is not easy to do, as her books sell out fast!
And by the way, about who would play Qwill if they made a movie? I saw Nick Nolte with dark hair and a full moustache this weekend in some rerun, and the first thing I thought was “That’s Qwill!”
i love the Cat Who books. Please tell me , they are not discontinuing them are they.
I love the books, I just started reading, i have read 2 and listened to two. i have never been more interested in any other book. I love Qwil and the cats and the people of pickax. the books bring me SANITY.
It is amazing that so many people (including myself) take refuge in a series of books where at least one person dies in each book. Yet there is sanity here. Pickax, Qwill, the cats, the community, all make sense and bring a sense of peace to the reader. It’s like taking a very long relaxing Tai Chi class.
Will the series end? That is a matter of some speculation. LJB is closing in on her mid-’90s and she may want at some time to retire. Our best hope is that she has lots of notes regaring future installments that she can pass on to a worthwhile successor.
What about Clarissa? They introduced her, she seemed to have a lot of potential as a new character, and then she up and moves away. It almost seemed like Liz was killed off to make room for a romance for Clarrisa and Dereck but then nothing else was said about her…
I have been reading the series for years. A few weeks ago, I decided to start again at the beginning. Am now on …Brought Down the House. Just a few more to go. I, too, was very disappointed in …60 Whiskers. Burn down the barn??!! How could they!! But I have to admit that I could have smacked Polly a few times in earlier books, so perhaps her departure could be tolerated; however, I can’t believe she left Brutus and Catta! I was involved with a Humane Society for several years, and it’s just plain mean to dump pets who have been members of a family for years. I hope it will all be resolved in …Smelled Smoke. A bad dream? One can only hope. Wikipedia says LBJ was born in 1913, which would make her a venerable 96 this year. Thank you LJB for so many hours of good reading.
Sorry, of course I meant LJB not LBJ…..old habits die hard.
Welcome, miamigal, to the LJB (not LBJ–yes old habits–were you around in the ’60s?–die hard.) I agree with your assessment of Polly’s behavior toward her cats. Most of us could no more dump our pets than we could dump our children. This makes me wonder if it would be possible to bring Polly back because her past behavior has made her an unsympathetic character. I wonder if, like Agatha Christie with Hercule Poirot, LJB just got sick and tired of Polly, so she engineered an unforgiveable sin that would effectively remove Polly from the action.
Derek and Clarissa–that would be an interesting match. I liked the Derek / Liz Hart match, however, and agree with Robin Thorn that it was incomprehensible why LJB did Liz in with just a couple of sentences about an auto accident (The Cat Who Dropped a Bombsheell–Chapter 16) then never followed up with Derek.
Oh yes, and I saw Tom Sellek on TV the other day, and I think he might make a good Qwill, but I think I still lean toward Nick Nolte. If they wanted a younger Qwill, what about Nicholas Cage with moustache? Cage has the most sympathetic eyes in the business.
I always pictured Qwill as more “Mr. Belvedere” looking. Or, who is the guy who used to play The White Shadow. I think he would be good, too.
Hmmm…Tracy. I pictured Mr. Belvedere as rather prissy for Qwill’s tastes. But Ken Howard, who played “The White Shadow” would be an attractive Qwill. He would certainly have the build for it, although I never pictured Qwill as blond. (However, there is hair dye. Alan Rickman is apparently blond, but I always pictured him with black hair, a la “Snape” of “Harry Potter” fame, for the role of “The Black Moth.” For anyone who has not seen “The White Shadow” think of a taller, broader, more athletic, less manic version of Simon Baker, who is tearing up the small screen as “The Mentalist.”
I just finished watching the latest Jesse Stone movie as well, and really think that Tom Selleck would be the best choice for Qwill. He has the sympathetic eyes, soft tone, and charisma to carry the role perfectly. If Ricky Lake can do a serviceable job as Harry Harrison, in the horribly butchered Disney version of Wish You Were Here, then I know that an actor of such talent as Tom Selleck would do our Qwill justice
The character of Jesse Stone is just how I picture Qwill already.
Welcome, Pappa Hodge. You have a convincing argument about Tom Sellek. I might add that like Qwill, he is aging gracefully and he has a very approachable personality, more so than Nick Nolte (although the latter can be quite sympathetic –see “Down and Out in Beverly Hills.”) So now if we can get them to start making “Cat Who” movies, we’ll be all set.
Robin, I hope you realize what a thread you have started! Not only amy I looking for an actor to play Qwill, but I have been researching who should play The Scarlet Pimpernel and The Black Moth!
I wholeheartedly agree with the idea of Tom Selleck playing Qwill. From the time I read the first book in the series he is the only actor I thought of for the role. He has the height, the talent and absolutely the perfect moustache! Wonder how he feels about cats?
Oh, that’s funny, Pat! I hadn’t really thought about cat interaction. It would be hysterical to see Tom Sellek as the quintessential cat lover. At least he doesn’t have to talk baby talk to the cats, as Qwill would find that against his dignity.
I think Tom Selleck would be purfect for the part. I am lucky enough to have a real life Qwill as my partnerand just got him reading the books (oh boy!)
I didn’t care for Polly and her self-centered ways, always taking Qwill for granted and I liked to think that at the end of the day Quill and I fed the cats, read the books, sipped strong coffee then climbed the ramp to bed together!
lol, what fun! Someone on another board said they pictured “Laura Bush” as the perfect polly!!! If only she was an actress. Poor Polly, she has not had alot of sympathy from Cat Who readers, since she decided to stay in france. I am listening to Cardinal on cd in my car this week and in this book she gets cozy with a horse trainner in Lockmaster and Qwill gets quite jealous, in spite of the fact he is always saying “she” is the one who is jealous. Happy reading! Robin
I hope you know what you have started. I just published a blog here on the site about who should play The Black Moth, and have been cogitating on who should be The Scarlet Pimpernel. For the latter, for some reason, I keep coming up with members of the San Antonio Spurs Basketball team, perhaps because he is tall and of powerful build.
To tell you the truth, I pictured Maggie Smith as Polly. I guess she’s a little too old, but the demeanor fits. No affront to Maggie Smith. She is one of the best actresses on the planet. Of course, we could go with Meryl Streep a la “Devil Wears Prada.” Yes, this is great fun!
Who would play Amanda Goodwinter?
Meryl Streep would be good as long as she playing her frumpy and caustic! I would love to say some of the things that woman said to peoples faces.
Oh, Amanda Goodwinter is a live one! Good question! What about Shirley McClaine? Olympia Dukakis (or is she too nice?)
Either Shirley or Olympia would be a good Amanda! I think Michael J. Fox would have been the perfect Jr. Goodwinter years ago, but he is to old and now ill. What about Mary Steenbergen for Polly? And Holland Taylor for Polly, Maggie Sprinkle or Violet. Conchetta Farrell for Lois. I have heard someone suggest Jane Curtain for Polly but the voice would be wrong. Maybe she could be a good Amanda, now that she is older. This is so fun
Anyone who would like to chat about the Cat Who books, meet me 3/20/09 at 8pm central time at this site http://teachers.net/chatrooms/one/ and we can move to room two and have a cat who chat.
Oh, what a neat idea! I wish I could, but I am keeping my granddaughter tonight and we’re baking pumpkin pies. I hope whoever attends will let me know what goes forth.
By the way, I think Mary Steenbergen would make a great Polly. She’s lovely, and personable, but with her there is always a question: “Is this who she really is, or is she getting ready to stab me in the back?” And Michael J. Fox would be the perfect Junior Goodwinter. No matter that he is old and ill. We can just remember him as he was in “Back to the Future”. That is the fun of this exercise. We can pick anyone of any age, because what matters is what we visualize when we read.
Sorry you cannot chat tonight Joyce, but grankids come FIRST. Teachers.net is a really nice chat for teachers and others interested in education.
I have only just discovered The Cat Who … books. I tutor Algebra/Calculus at Cottey College, an upscale girls jr. college and last Jan. I ran into the library to get something to read between students and found a trilogy of The Cat Who Moved a Mountain, …Blew the Whistle, and …Said Cheese. Well, by the time I finished I was hooked. Then, I printed a list and started at the beginning. I’m up to #22, …Robbed a Bank.
I’m upset now that the last 3 are a little different and “…60 Whiskers” seems depressing. However, I am glad to see I;m not the only one who sees Tom Selleck as Qwill in I hoped a weekly (ala “Muder She Wrote”) TV series. But then we would need more writers, since it would go through the 30 books quickly.
Thanks
Welcome, Linda. Of course you know you are in for a treat! I would not worry about the last three novels being “depressing”. I re-read them, and I think the “depressing” part may be due a lot to our rising expectations and the fact that we realize that the series may be ending soon unless LJB can pass the mantle to another deserving author. By far, the most depressing of the LJB novels is surprisingly one of my favorites: “The Cat Who Saw Red”. You obviously got past that one and kept reading, so keep on enjoying the books!
I JUST FINISHED “TALKED TURKEY” AND I DO NOT THINK THE ENDING WAS IN LINE WITH WHAT QUILL WOULD HAVE DONE. HOW COULD HE LEAVE A KNOWN MURDERER IN THE GAZEBO AND THEN BRING IN KOKO & LEAVE THEM ALONE. HE KNEW THE MAN HAD A GUN. HE THEN PROCEEDED TO TELL HIM THAT HIS ACOMPLICE WAS DEAD & THERE WAS NO HOPE FOR HIM. MAKES NO SENSE TO ME. ????
Interesting question, Patty. I may have to break my slow progression through the series, backwards, to reread this book and see what gives! I love to read a book, especially an LJB book, when I have something specific to look for. It is then that I discover the careful way in which LJB weaves a plot and characterizes her players.
Patty every time I re read Turkey I wonder that same thing. Qwill would not have left koko to be shot after he saw the gun. When he went back to the house he would have scooped up koko and taken him with him. That has always bothered me as “out of character”, but then I was thinking one day, we ALL as humans do things out of character on occasion, so this just makes Qwill more human.
MAYBE SOMEONE ELSE WROTE ‘TALKS TURKEY.” THE ENDING IS NOT AT ALL PLAUSIBLE.
My Mother told me that LJB died last year and I’m sure she was having help in putting together the last of her books. I hope whoever it is will adhere more to the original feel of the books. The burning of the barn as well as most of the historic houses that were the subject of the story is a strange way to carry the storline to an end - and too predictable. We like twists at the end and somewhat happy endings, right?
I googled LJB and did not see anything about her death, although I did come across Robert Kaplow’s spoof, “The Cat Who Killed Lilian Jackson Braun”. The book had only a two star out of five rating, and judging strictly from the synopsis, it didn’t sound like anything a devoted LJB fan would read. However that is beside the point. Did anyone else come across news of her death? I was under the impression she was very much alive.
I have not heard that LJB passed away. I belong to 6 other sites and webrings on LJB and no one is reporting her death. Just that she is very old and has been in the hospital. I like when the books end out of character. People do out of character things every day, just listen to the news or talk to a woman whose husband ran off with an 18 year old after 50 years of marriage. That is part of human nature. So when books like Turkey have Qwill do something out of character or like 60 whiskers ……..has Polly acting out of character I don’t have a problem with it. Humans do strange things sometimes. I just love the books. I love LJB’s writing. I have not grand expectations for Smelled Smoke, after the last few books. If we get another book fine, if not, I will continue to listen to them on tape the rest of my life. I will put one on as soon as I get off the puter!
I have been listening to “Underground” while cleaning house today. What a great little book. I love the books set at the lake. I wish we had more of them. And I find myself enjoying the books where Polly leaves for the summer. Qwill is so free to meet interesting people and get into adventures with her out of town. I do not often hear the “Underground” is someone’s favorite, but it really is action packed from beginning to end. And who can forget Iggie and Mrs. Ascot. Two great characters.
Thanks for your comments, Robin. I was happy to hear that you have not heard anything of LJB’s death in any of your research. Long may she live! What a great idea, listening to the audio books as you clean house! It’s a great way to get your exercise, clean the house and enjoy it at the same time! I guess I’ll have to put two cents in for my favorite: “The Cat Who Went to Breakfast”. I loved the Scottish history lesson and the storm was so exciting! I think it was nice to see Polly and Qwill get away together as well. I am still reading “Turkey” in an effort to determine if Qwill was out of character. Will return my verdict when I finish.
Strictly my opinion, but I think LJB was writing her last book in the series. The way it ended, with Polly staying in Scotland, the apple barn burning down, and Qwill getting a new girlfriend, all seem to indicate the end of the series to me. Ms. Braun is 96, after all, and it wouldn’t surprise me if she’s ready to retire. Sure loved her books, though.
Hello, Joyce, from another Joyce. Polly stayed in Paris, not Scotland. Your idea of her writing her last book does have merit, but why would Amazon have “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” listed as the next book in the series? I agree, we have had a wonderful series from her, and I will miss it terribly.
Joyce, how did the pumpkin pie with the grands turn out?
I am a member of the facebook group: People Who Want to Live in Moose County. If you are on facebook, just do a search for it and join in on the discussion.
I have been thinking of reading “Closet” again. I consider it a masterpiece. Plots, subplots, so much humor. The halloween scene on Goodwinter Blvd and Qwill with his apples……..good stuff. The scene with Qwill dressed in a to tight Santa suite and going up a ladder……..priceless. The scene of him speeding across the ice with the dog team……scary. The scene where he discovers Euphonia’s illigetimate daughter, facinating. The scenes where he gets to know the laughing Mrs. Robinson……very funny. What a book and a murder too.
Robin, sorry it took so long to reply . I got behind in my reviews and had to pay some attention to The Black Moth and Scarlet Pimpernel. Our get-togethers with the grands are always a great success; however, the granddaughter decided she’d rather play with the new basketball I got her than bake pies. Guess I can’t fault her. I just got back from Kung Fu class.
I JUST FINISHED “WENT BANANAS” AND WAS EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED IN THE ENDING. THERE WASN’T ONE. IT LEFT EVERYTHING TO SUPPOSITION. I FEEL, AS OTHERS HAVE EXPRESSED, THAT THERE IS A DIFFERENT AUTHOR. WHERE IS THE MYSTERY? WHO SOLVES IT? WHO WAS THE SNIPER WHO SHOT ALDEN WADE’S 1ST WIFE? WHERE DID THE STEP-SON VANISH TO? DID ALDEN KILL RONNIE DICKSON OR JUST SUPPLY HIM WITH DRUGS? DID VIOLET HIBBARD DIE OF NATURAL CAUSES? WHO STOLE THE BOOK? ALDEN? AND WHY????IF SO, WHY HAVE IT OUT IN PLAIN SIGHT? AND NO ONE IN THE WHOLE TOWN COULD FIGURE OUT THE DATE FOR THE SESQUICENTENNIAL? THAT LEAVES IT AS AN AVAILABLE TOPIC FOR THE NEXT BOOK. THE LITTLE BLURB ABOUT THE BOOK STATES, “KOKO FINDS A BUNCH OF CLUES WHEN AN OUT OF TOWN ACTOR DIES MYSTERIOUSLY”….WHAT CLUES? WHAT ANSWERS??? WHO DONE IT???? P.S. I DO NOT REMEMBER SEEING ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS IN HER EARLIER WORKS, JUST DEDICATION TO THE HUSBAND WHO…..CALL ME VERY SKEPTICAL…….
Yes Bananas is disappointing. You might as well not read Bombshell or 60 Whiskers if Bananas concerned or upset you. Go back and read some of the older books again. They are a joy the second and third time around.
I just heard from a friend that Amazon cancelled her Smelled Smoke book order as unavailable. Sad news.
SOMEONE NEEDS TO CONTINUE WITH THE SERIES, EVEN IF THEY HAVE TO CHANGE EVERY CHARACTERS NAME BY 1 LETTER!!!! THE CATS MUST GO ON. ANY VOLUNTEERS? WOULD BE BIG BUCKS. WE SHOULD ALL CO-AUTHOR!!!
Hi Folks–just intruding on your convo for a second. I’ve started a forum on this site, in large part due to this lively thread. If you want to head over to http://girlebooks.com/forum, you can start up your own topics there on LJB or anything else, in a multi-thread format. I’ll see you over there!
So has Ms. Brawn passed away or is the whole Cat Who series stopped with book 29 “60 Wiskers”? What is the status?
Like many I love “The Cat Who . . .” series and have just about drove book sellers crazy trying to find “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” - thank you for setting me straight. I would love to see the series continue, only if whoever wrote it - continued Mrs. Braun style. It is unique and wonderful reading. I also own a siamese cat and well understand how she comes up with some of their actions.
Welcome, CC. Yes, we are all bummed out about the apocryphal “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke”. Maybe it will show up one day. In the meantime, hope you’ll visit and comment in our new forum:
http://girlebooks.com/forum
I’ve been reading the Cat Who books since 1990 I always knew that the day would come that I wouldn’t have any new Cat Who books to read.What I think is going on is that Mrs.Braun doesn’t have the book finished yet.She is 96 years old this year and I pray when I’m at that age I can still write my name and here she is writing books.Between her age and health she’s just not able too finish it.I don’t think that we’ll even see The Cat Who Smelled Smoke and it a shame she is a great writer and she has given us many years of enjoyment from those great books.